Let’s Start Off with the Basics: An Interview with Unlovely

One of my first conversations with Soundcloud artist Unlovely—known to me as “Kyle”—ended in me convincing him to move to my home city of Atlanta. Needless to say, Kyle is charming. That’s why I eagerly approached him with the idea of doing an interview. Although camera shy, Kyle knew how badly I wanted to get to know him more and kindly obliged.

Since I couldn’t meet Kyle in person for the interview, what with his final exams and my chaotic schedule, we opted for a phone call. When I say Kyle is easy to talk to, I mean it. What was supposed to be a 40-minute phone call evolved into a 2-hour talk session.

Unlovely started as an experimental project for the high schooler. With over 150,000 plays, he continues to produce original songs monthly. Although every song has a unique beat, his consistent style is easily recognizable. Everything about Unlovely seems to be well thought and planned out. When I look at the photos Kyle posts and listen to his music, it’s almost like each song matches a specific photo—like a picture book coming to life.

Lithium: If you had to listen to one album on repeat for a month, what would it by and why?

Unlovely: "Earl Sweatshirt" by Doris. [That] album really resonates with me. Maybe not in a “this is me” way, but I really love every song on [the record]. [It's] super creative and interesting. It’s my favorite.

Lithium: Do you use Tumblr?

Unlovely: Yes. I don’t use [it] too much but when I do, it's to find new art and such. At some point, I want to use it as a portfolio of sorts for art and photography.

Lithium: For up-and-coming artists, what social media sites allow for the most attention?

Unlovely: Twitter by far.

Lithium: How would you describe your style? How did you develop it?

Unlovely: I really just make alternative stuff. I can’t fit very well into any genre other than rap, but I'm out there.

Lithium: Which underground artists inspire you?

Unlovely: Jake Knight. [His] work ethic is wild. I love the dude. Jake is one of the most creative guys I’ve met [in] this music business. I really wish he got more credit for what he’s doing. I like Yebutnobutye. He's the future. If I’m not listening to Earl Sweat, I'm listening to everything Deucefade’s made. And also Goth Dad. I hope this isn't cheating, but my boy Matt is a real artist. In like a year, Matt’s gotta be famous, I swear. He better be.